Adventure Collective
Discover New Zealand’s Hawke's Bay: A 4-Day Outdoor Adventure Through Geothermal Wonders and Coastal Wildlife - Auckland

Discover New Zealand’s Hawke's Bay: A 4-Day Outdoor Adventure Through Geothermal Wonders and Coastal Wildlife

Aucklandmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4 days

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical condition to manage moderate walking, light hikes, and daily tours.

Overview

Explore New Zealand’s Hawke's Bay on a thrilling 4-day tour featuring geothermal parks, Art Deco architecture, vibrant wildlife, and world-class wineries. Discover stunning landscapes from Te Puia’s geysers to Lake Taupō’s serene waters.

Auckland, Auckland

Multi-Day Tour: Hawke's Bay Experience

All Ages • 3 Nights & 4 Days

City Tour
Guided Tour
Walking Tour

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 4-day adventure through New Zealand's stunning landscapes. Explore geothermal wonders at Te Puia, the charming Art Deco city of Napier, and the breathtaking Lake Taupō. Enjoy unique experiences like gannet safaris, wine tastings, and the majestic Huka Falls, all while immersing in local culture and nature.

A fulfilling and enriching journey that will create lasting memories

Duration

3 Nights & 4 Days

Tour Summary

Uncover geothermal hotspots of Te Puia to explore Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, and discover one of the vibrant cities of New Zealand, Napier, and its beautifully preserved 1930s architecture. Experience Hawke’s Bay’s great outdoors and many attractions. An ideal base to explore a welcoming nature of Cape Kidnappers, an outstanding bird-watching destination, with dramatic coastal views into the bargain, walk through the city on Art deco tour and enjoy the Bay's wine country attractions. Pass through the spectacular natural landscapes unlike those found anywhere else in the world, Lake Taupo is known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, rugged mountains, and a variety of wildlife and the thundering huka falls.

Itinerary At a Glance

  • Day 1: Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience (incl. Hangi Buffet Lunch) and Travel to Napier & Overnight Stay in Napier.

  • Day 2: Cape Kidnapper Gannet Safaris, Art Deco Walking City Tours & Overnight Stay in Napier.

  • Day 3: National Aquarium of New Zealand & Church Road Wine Experience & Overnight Stay in Napier.

  • Day 4: Lake Taupō, Huka falls, Huka Honey Hive and return to Auckland.

Tour Highlights

  • Enjoy a scenic drive through lush countryside with opportunity for photo stops.
  • Sightseeing historical government gardens, thermal springs and Polynesian spa.
  • Chance to see the towering water jets of Pōhutu Geyser.
  • Spot the iconic New Zealand kiwi bird at the nocturnal house.
  • Up-close look at the valley's immense bubbling mud pools.
  • A unique 36-kilometre guided tour from stunning coast to cape.
  • Fascinating introduction to gannet colony from expert local guides.
  • Breath-taking views of Hawke’s Bay, Mahia Peninsula and Mount Ruapehu.
  • Hear the dramatic story of the 1931 earthquake and discover Art Deco.
  • Taste the wonders of New Zealand wines at a historic cellar in Napier.
  • Discover an exciting world above and below the water at the National Aquarium.
  • Explore the scenic beauty of Lake Taupō by stretching your legs along the lakeside.
  • Enjoy the best water-level viewing of the majestic Huka Falls.
  • Step into the glorious world of the honey bee!

Journey Inclusions

  • Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland.
  • Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland.
  • Complimentary refreshments and water on board.
  • Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard.
  • A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.
  • Luxurious temperature-controlled private transportation.
  • Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.
  • Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish. ​

Tour Inclusions

  • Admission to guided tour, and Māori cultural performance at Te Puia Geothermal Valley.
  • Admission to Pōhutu Geyser.
  • Admission to hangi buffet lunch at Te Puia Geothermal Valley.
  • Rotorua city highlights – Government gardens, thermal springs & Polynesian spa (Entry not included).
  • Admission to 3-hours gannet safari cape kidnapper.
  • Admission to 1.5-hours Art Deco walking Tour.
  • Admission to 2 hours Cellar Door wine tastings and matched savoury bites.
  • Admission to 1 hour National Aquarium of New Zealand.
  • Visit to Te Mata Peak lookout.
  • Visit to the stunning lake city of Taupō waterfront.
  • Visit mighty and majestic Huka falls.
  • Admission to New Zealand’s largest showcase of honey products.
  • Free tastings of 100% pure New Zealand honey, honey wine (mead) and liqueurs.
  • 4 Star Hotel Accommodation on Twin Sharing Basis including Breakfast.

Tour Requirements

  • Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, sun protection, jacket/warm layer & essential personal items.
  • Easy and good fitness level required.
  • This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
  • Being an active geothermal area with uneven terrain, sturdy footwear is recommended. Jandals, sandals, flip-flops or high heeled shoes are not suitable.
  • You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
  • Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as these locations are the perfect place to get some great travel photos.
  • You must be at least 18 years of age and present a valid photo ID in order to consume alcohol.

Adventure Tips

Pack Layers for Variable Weather

New Zealand’s North Island weather can shift quickly; dress in layers to stay comfortable during geothermal visits and outdoor excursions.

Bring Waterproof Footwear

Trails around geysers and waterfalls can be wet and slippery—sturdy, waterproof shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.

Book Wine Tastings in Advance

Napier’s vineyards are popular; reserving tastings ahead ensures you don’t miss out on sampling exceptional local wines.

Respect Wildlife Viewing Guidelines

When on gannet safaris, keep a safe distance and avoid disturbance to the birds to protect this important breeding site.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Australasian gannets
  • New Zealand fantail birds

History

Hawke's Bay was shaped by volcanic activity and rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake, giving Napier its renowned Art Deco character.

Conservation

Local operators promote sustainable tourism by protecting wildlife habitats and limiting environmental impacts in sensitive geothermal sites.

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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Hiking Shoes

Essential

Supports comfortable walking on varied terrain including uneven geothermal grounds.

Rain Jacket

Essential

Protects against sudden rain showers common in the region.

Camera

Captures the region’s striking landscapes, wildlife, and cultural sites.

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is key when exploring outdoor areas and walking between sites.